TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Some Kansas business owners were frustrated Friday by Gov. Laura Kelly’s plan to gradually reopen the state’s coronavirus-battered economy because they won’t be able to open their doors again Monday while others can.
Kelly is letting a statewide stay-at-home order expire at midnight Sunday and allowing restaurants and many other businesses to reopen if they observe social distancing and take other steps against the spread of the novel coronavirus. But bars, restaurants, gyms, barbershops and hair salons are won’t be able to reopen until at least May 18.
Nathan Hunt owns a martial arts academy in Junction City and says he can observe social distancing, keep classes small and disinfect his premises to operate safely. The retired Army platoon sergeant and combat veteran said it’s “insulting” that the state won’t trust him to reopen safely while big box retail stores are operating.
But family physician Drew Miller of Lakin in southwest Kansas said state and local officials should continue to be cautious and was surprised and pleased that Kelly’s plan struck him as conservative. He said he will still advise people to stay home as much as possible.
Kelly’s plan still allows local officials to impose stricter rules.